LAMITAN CITY— Over 1,600 delegates from across the BARMM’s 10 school division offices (SDOs) attended the 2024 regional campus journalism and festival of talent competitions held last April 16-20 in this city.
This marks the first time that the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE) has organized the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) and Regional Festival of Talents (RFOT) in the province of Basilan, as part of the preparation for the upcoming national schools press conference in Cebu.
In her welcome message, Lamitan City School Division Superintendent Dr. Myra Mangkabung, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the MBHTE for giving them the opportunity to host such a huge event.
“We are here not just to compete but to strengthen the relationship of the MBHTE from mainland to island,” said Mangkabung.
“It is really an honor for us, this is the first time that RSPC and RFOT is conducted in the island provinces particularly in Lamitan City. One of the battle cry of the island provinces is to travel to Cotabato where are always activities. It makes the island provinces feel that they are part of BARMM,” she added.
For his part, MBHTE Bureau for Basic Education Director Jonny Balawag emphasized the crucial role of journalism in shaping resilience community and upholding transparency.
“Journalism, in its essence, serves as a powerful tool for advocating social endeavor. To recognize the pivotal role of journalism in advocating for social issues is also an agent of change advocating for fairness, justice, and sustainability through their work,” Balawag emphasized.
He also stressed the importance of promoting fair and ethical media practices among journalists.
He added: “The RSPC serves as a platform to foster camaraderie and increase learning experiences through healthy and friendly competition. It also provides our learners with valuable opportunities to equip their skills for future careers.”
Maguindanao del Norte secured the top spot with an impressive 271 points in both secondary and elementary levels, spanning across group and individual categories.
Meanwhile, Cotabato City closely followed, securing the 2nd position with 260 points, while Maguindanao del Sur clinched the 3rd position with 89 points.
The host city, Lamitan, earned 51 points in the secondary level competition. (Majid Nur/BIO)
